Bittaford man with "extreme right-wing ideology" jailed with for terrorism offences

A 22-year-old with "extreme right-wing ideology" has been jailed for terrorism offences at Winchester Crown Court. 

Harry Parris, 22, of Wrangaton Road, Bittaford, Ivybridge, was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison, followed by one year on extended license, for terrorism offences. 

Harry Parris - credit Devon and Cornwall Police

Following an investigation by Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) alongside Counter Terrorism Policing South West (CTPSW), Parris pleaded guilty to a number of offences. 

He was sentenced for:

• four counts of encouragement of terrorism under section 1 (2) of the Terrorism Act 2006
• six counts of possession of a document or record containing information of a kind likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism contrary to Section 58 (1) (b) of the Terrorism Act 2000

The 22-year-old admitted to publishing statements which could be useful to committing or preparing an act of terrorism and possessing documents including bomb and gun making manuals which were of an extreme right-wing ideology. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Olly Wright, Head of CTPSE, said: “We have worked closely with our colleagues in Counter Terrorism Policing South West (CTPSW) to secure the evidence that ensured a strong case against Parris. 

“Publishing statements supporting toxic, terrorist ideology, and being in possession of documents like bomb-making manuals are extremely serious offences.  

“The evidence gathered gave him no option but to admit to these offences.” 

He added: “Counter Terrorism Policing works in partnership with local policing colleagues and other partners day-in-day-out to disrupt this sort of activity because it has the potential to cause serious harm and to divide our communities. 

“We do also need the public’s help. If you spot anything that’s not right or have concerns about the actions of individuals, trust your instincts and please report it. You can help us prevent terrorism and save lives.” 

Chief Superintendent Roy Linden, the Devon and Cornwall Police Commander for South Devon, said: “We will always treat matters relating to terrorism and extremism seriously, and thoroughly investigate any use of the internet to spread hate and dangerous material.   

“These matters are both concerning and serious, but thankfully on this occasion there was no reference or threat to the local community in South Devon.  

“If you are concerned about someone’s behaviour please contact us on 101 or in an emergency, dial 999.” 

ACT by reporting it in confidence at gov.uk/ACT